Japanese privet (Ligustrum japonicum) is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to Japan and Korea that is widely planted as a hedge, screen, or ornamental landscape plant. It has glossy, dark-green leaves, fragrant white flowers in spring, and small dark-purple to black berries that birds may eat. It is valued for its dense growth and ability to tolerate pruning, heat, and a range of soils, although it can become invasive in some regions.
It is considered toxic to pets, particularly dogs and cats, if they eat significant amounts of its leaves or berries. The plant contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, while larger ingestions may produce weakness or more serious symptoms.